Multi-Chamber Container and Cap Therefor

ABSTRACT

A dispenser comprises a housing that has a removable tamper proof protective cap and tamper proof ring and is threaded to a container. The container, which is the main package, holds the supplemental component. The housing holds the first component into a plunger type chamber in a fully retracted position and is sealed from the supplemental component. The chamber has a delivery end that is closed before use. When pushed all the way in, the chamber&#39;s delivery end becomes open and delivers the first component into the main package.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 12/363,407,filed Jan. 30, 2009, which is a divisional of application Ser. No.11/267,424, filed Nov. 4, 2005, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§119 on provisional application Ser. No. 60/624,931 filed on Nov. 4,2004, the entire contents of each application is hereby incorporated byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention concerns a dispensing closure such as a container;especially containers that have at least two chambers that may be usedto keep at least two components, such as a liquid and a powder ortablets, separated until time for use.

Many different styles of caps, lids and closures have been welldocumented and described in the prior art. They include tamper proofclosures, caps that seal the container using a check valve takingadvantage of the squeeze action of a flexible bottle to create thepressure differential to activate the valve, and other devices. Alsoprior art concerning containers with two compartments, separating twoingredients to be mixed before consumption, exist; but few if any ofthese containers are commercially available mostly because ofcomplicated parts, difficulty of filling and high manufacturing cost.

Many of these devices consist of a piercing tip or cutter thatperforates or cuts a foil seal, blister pack or membrane releasing onecomponent into a supplemental component, usually tablets, granules orpowders into a liquid. Minor differences, consisting mostly of how thepiercing tip is activated, differentiate these devices. Whether piercingtips or cutters are used to remove the seal between compartments, thereis always the danger of having fragments of foil or other residue fallinto the mixed components.

This invention provides a container and cap that overcome many of thedisadvantages of the prior art while providing a container that is easyto use and uses a minimum number of parts and that is simple tomanufacture and assemble.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention is a device and means to add a selected component to amain package or chamber. It forms a two-chamber container that keeps thefirst component separated from the main component, in an air tightsealed manner until a selected time before use. If the first componentis moisture sensitive, means are provided to include desiccant granulesin the housing that contains the first component.

In an embodiment, the device comprises a cap or delivery package that ismounted on a threaded neck of a container (bottle) main body thatcontains the main component, preferably a liquid.

The cap has a fixed member that attaches to the container main body anda movable member that holds the supplemental component. In a fullyretracted position, the movable member is sealed against the fixedmember and held in place until enough force is applied to unlock andpush down the top flange of plunger until it bottoms up against a fixedmember seat. When that happens, openings at the bottom of the movablemember (delivery end) become unsealed and the first component isdispensed into the main package. The housing is then removed from themain package and the two mixed components are ready to use.

In a further embodiment, the device consists of a similar cap or housingthat is provided with a built in liquid dispensing attachment (sipper)that allows the use of the mixed components without removing the cap orhousing from the main package.

The invention provides means to attach a first compartment to a mainpackage after both have been manufactured and filled. For examplevitamins, minerals, nutrients or medicine can be added to liquidbeverage bottles in the form of effervescent powders or granules at orjust before the time the beverage is consumed.

In a further embodiment, the invention provides for a containercomprising a container main body providing a first chamber for holding aliquid and having an opening, a container cap mounted at the opening ofthe container main body, the cap including a plunger having an open endand a closed end and a second chamber formed therebetween for holding acomponent, the closed end formed by a lid, the plunger having a lockingmember wherein the plunger, lid and locking member are all formed of onepiece, a cap body having a bore formed by an inner wall having a firststructure and the plunger mounted within the bore and movable from astorage condition to an activated condition so that in the storagecondition the locking member engages the first structure and adispensing tip mounted in the bore adjacent the plunger and the plungeractivates the dispensing tip to move between a closed position to anopen position allowing the component in the second chamber to bedispensed into the first chamber.

In an embodiment, the open end of the plunger may abut against thecylindrical collar of the dispensing tip and upon actuation of theplunger from the storage condition to the activated condition the openend abuts against the collar and pushes the dispensing tip from theclosed to the open position in order to break the seal of the dispensingtip and allow for the component to be dispensed from the second chamberto the first chamber of the main body. In an embodiment, the containercap may include a tear strip which provides for both a compressionbarrier in order to maintain the lid in the storage condition when thetear strip is attached to the cap and a tamper evident component thatprovides for a visible indication once the tear strip is removed.

In an embodiment, the tear strip may be formed as one piece with theplunger and includes a perforated area adjacent on the edge of the capto allow for removal of the tear strip. In an embodiment, the containercap may include a desiccant cylinder snap fit within the cap. In anembodiment, the component may include granules having at least twodifferent weights, the granules contained within the second chamber whenthe plunger is in the storage condition. In an embodiment, the lid maybe a solid member that permanently encloses the second chamber and isintegrally formed with the plunger. In an embodiment, the locking memberincludes an annular flange protruding from the plunger and the firststructure being an annular groove formed in the inner wall and forreceiving the annular flange in the storage condition. In an embodiment,the inner wall may include a second structure having an annular grooveformed in the inner wall below the first structure and for receiving theannular flange when the plunger is moved to the activated condition inorder to lock the plunger in the activated condition.

In an embodiment, the locking member may include a first tapered wallformed on an outer plunger wall and the first structure including asecond tapered wall of the cap body and upon moving of the plunger tothe activated condition, the first tapered wall engaging the secondtapered wall in order to provide a luer lock effect in order to lock theplunger in the activated position. In an embodiment, the first taperedwall of the cap body has a slope equal to the slope of the secondtapered wall of the plunger. In an embodiment, the dispensing tip mayinclude a cylindrical collar having an annular flange protrudingtherefrom and reciprocating within the bore of the cap body between theopen and closed positions and the annular flange engaging an annular lipformed at the open end in order to lock the dispensing tip in the openposition.

In an embodiment, the dispensing tip may include apertures formedtherein for dispensing of the component from the second chamber to thefirst chamber. In an embodiment, the dispensing tip may include atransverse base member having a generally conical shaped upper surfaceto allow for the component to be dispensed easily through the open endof the cap. In an embodiment, the cap body may include an outer collarforming a threaded receptacle for mounting the cap onto the containermain body. In an embodiment, the cap body may include threads havingvents formed therein. In an embodiment, storage condition may providefor an air tight seal for the second chamber.

In an embodiment, the plunger may include a locking lug and the cap bodyincludes a key way for engaging the locking lug in order to preventaxial rotation of the plunger. In an embodiment, the lid may form a softshaped target surface. In an embodiment, the dispensing tip may includea labyrinth seal that restricts air and moisture from passing into thesecond chamber. In an embodiment, the dispensing tip may include adielectric seal in the storage condition. In an embodiment, thedielectric seal may be adjustably securable so that during manufactureof the container the amount of energy directed toward the dispensing tipmay be controlled in order to adjust the pull strength of the seal. Inan embodiment, the container and cap may provide for a modular systemthat may be removed from the container main body without adjusting theplunger from the storage condition and preventing the dispensing tip tomove from the closed position so that the cap may be shipped separatefrom the container main body and also so that the volume of the liquidin the first chamber can be adjusted while the cap is removed andwithout affecting the amount of component within the second chamber ofthe cap.

In a further embodiment, a cap is provided comprising a cap body havingan open end and a closed end formed by a lid, and a dispenser tipmounted at the open end and reciprocatable between an open and a closedposition and in the closed position, in at least a first operation, thedispenser tip forming a seal at the open end and upon activation of thedispenser tip the seal being broken and providing a first audible soundindicative of the dispenser tip being in the open position. In anembodiment, the lid may be moveable between a storage condition and anactivated condition by pushing downward on the lid with an operator'shand and the lid being hard and smooth in order to provide a resonantsurface so that upon activation of the lid with the operator's hand asecond audible sound is provided indicative of the lid being moved tothe activated condition. In an embodiment, the lid may include atransparent dome. In an embodiment, the lid may include indiciaidentifying the contents of the container.

In an embodiment, the first and second audible sounds may occurapproximately simultaneously to provide a dual activation opening sound.In an embodiment, the seal may be provided by a dielectric seal formedbetween an edge of the dispenser tip and the open end of the cap body.In an embodiment, the seal may be provided by mechanically locking thedispenser tip against the open end of the cap body. In an embodiment,the dispenser tip may be generally conical shaped and includes anannular edge forming a first flat, sealing surface and the cap bodyforming an annular rim at the open end and the rim forming a secondflat, sealing surface for abuttingly receiving the first flat, sealingsurface thereon in the closed position. In an embodiment, a dielectricseal may be provided between the first and second flat, sealing surfacesthat can withstand a pull force of about 250-1,000 grams.

In an embodiment, the dispenser tip may include an upper ring having anannular flange protruding in a direction parallel to the annular edgeand the cap body including an annular groove for receiving the annularflange in order to lock the dispensing tip in the closed position andseal the first flat sealing surface against the second flat sealingsurface. In an embodiment, upon moving the dispenser tip from the closedposition to the open position the annular flange may be displaced fromthe annular groove and provides the first audible sound due to thecompression and decompression of material forming the annular flange. Inan embodiment, the dispenser tip may be generally conical shaped andincludes an annular edge forming a first flat, sealing surface and thecap body forming an annular rim at the open end and the rim forming asecond, flat sealing surface for abuttingly receiving the first flat,sealing surface thereon in the closed position and the first audiblesound is provided by both the breaking of the dielectric seal and thedisengagement of the annular flange from the annular groove.

In another embodiment, a method of providing effervescence in acontainer is provided comprising the steps of providing a containerhaving a first chamber for holding a liquid and second chamber holding acomponent, filling the first chamber at least partially with liquid,filling the second chamber at least partially with the component,wherein the component is formed of a first component having a firstweight or shape and a supplemental component having a second weight orshape, activating the container so that the first chamber is incommunication with the second chamber and dispensing the component fromthe second chamber to the first chamber and the component beingdispersed into the liquid so that the first component is dispersed to afirst location in the liquid that is apart from a second location towhich the supplemental component is dispersed, wherein the component isactivated by the liquid and causes an effervescence within the firstchamber at the first and second locations.

In an embodiment, the first weight may be between about 0.5 to 2 gramsand the second weight is between about 2 to 5 grams. In an embodiment,the first shape may be a sphere and the second shape is a cube. In anembodiment, the component may be a tablet including an ingredientincluding one of a Creatine, wolfberry, calcium, guarine, arginine,Vitamins B, B12, C, D, ibuprofen, electrolytes, niacin, folic acid,biotin, choline bitartate, inositol, manganese, calcium, Saint John'swart, yohimbe, chromium polynicotinate, carnitine, taurine, astragulus,schizandra, kava kava, lemon grass, Echinacea, prolione, bee pollen,amino acids and zinc. In an embodiment, the first component may includean ingredient different than the supplemental component. In anembodiment, the second chamber may be provided by a cap that is securelyattached to the container so that increase in pressure in the firstchamber due to effervescence cannot cause the cap to pop off thecontainer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the subject mattersought to be protected, there are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings embodiments thereof, from an inspection of which, whenconsidered in connection with the following description, the subjectmatter sought to be protected, its construction and operation, and manyof its advantages should be readily understood and appreciated.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the capinvention attached to the main package, in this case a bottle, beforethe device is activated;

FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of the component features of the cap of FIG.1;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 1 afterthe device has been activated and the first component dispensed into themain package;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the movable member of the cap of FIG. 1showing the delivery end and seals;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3A, taken at line 3B-3B;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the fixed member of the cap of FIG. 1showing the lock ring and provisions for the protective cap;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4A, taken at line 4B-4B;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the capinvention attached to the main package, before the device is activated;

FIG. 5A is an enlarged detail view of the cap of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 5 afterthe device has been activated;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the cap of FIG. 5 with the movablemember of the device retracted back into the original position;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the containerinvention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 8 having the capshown in an exploded view;

FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of the cap of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken at line 11-11 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a side elevation view showing the removal of the tear stripfrom the cap of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a sectional side elevation view of the container of FIG. 8showing the cap in the activated condition;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the dispenser tip of FIG. 9;and

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the cap body and outer collarof FIG. 10 with the lid/plunger removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A first embodiment of the invention is depicted with respect to FIGS.1-4B. In FIG. 1, the dispensing closure or cap 10 is shown in use with aplastic container 12 which contains a main component such as water or avariety of different fluids. The container 12 or main package has athreaded neck 14 to which the dispensing closure 10 is mounted usinginternal threads 16, FIG. 4, included in the container cap or body 18.The container cap 18 or cap is serrated 80, (FIG. 4), in order tofacilitate the assembly and disassembly of the dispensing closure 10 tothe container 12.

The container cap 18 is provided with a tamper proof ring 20 that locksbehind a collar 22 built into the container neck 14, when the dispensingclosure 10 is threaded all the way in. When removing the dispensingclosure 10 after the first component 24 has been added to the container12, the tamper proof ring 20 remains locked behind the collar 22 and theunscrewing motion provides enough force to break thin protrusions 26FIG. 4 that attach the tamper proof ring 20 to the container cap 18. Ifthe dispensing closure 10 has not been activated but the tamper proofring 20 is loose, that will provide a visual indication that thecontainer has been opened before being ready for use. An example of asupplemental or first component 24 that may be used are vitamins,minerals, nutrients or medicine. The first component 24 may be in theform of effervescent granules or powder could be formulated to addressspecific needs and markets such as:

POWER : Creatine, wolfberry, calcium, guarine, arginine, vitamin C and B

POST WORK OUT : ibuprofen, electrolytes

VITAMIN SUPPLEMENT : B1, niacin, folic acid, Biotin, choline bitartrate,inositol, manganese

VITAMIN CHARGE : vitamins B, B12, C and D

BONE HEALTH : calcium

STRESS : Saint John's Wort, wolfberry

ENERGY : yohimbe, chromium polynicotinate, carnitine, taurine,astragulus, vitamin C

CALM : schizandra, kava kava, lemongrass

HEALTH/COLD PREVENTION : echinacea, prolione, wolfberry, bee pollen,amino acids, zinc.

The top of the container cap 18 has means of attaching a tamper proofprotective cap 28. Corresponding meshing teeth 30 FIG. 4 prevent theprotective cap 28 from rotating while a ring/groove combination 32insure that it can not separate from the container cap 18 untilreasonable force is applied. Similar thin protrusions 26 found in thetamper proof ring 20 are used in the protective cap 28 design.Attachment of the protective cap to the container cap is not shown indetail since it is based on a design well known to those of skill in theart.

A movable member, plunger or first component holder 34 comprises thesecond part of the assembly. When inserted into the container cap 18, itlocks in place in the retracted position by means of a lock ring 36matched with a lock groove 38 provided in the container cap 18. Thebottom of the lock ring 36 is sloped while the top is flat. The sameconfiguration is used for the lock groove 38; thus, insuring that lessforce is required to push the first component holder 34 and greaterforce is required to pull it out of the container cap 18. Thisconstruction acts to indicate to the user that the first componentholder can move only one way and, in this embodiment of the invention,it can not be retracted after the first component has been dispensed. Anadditional safety feature is also provided by means of a container caplock ring 40 below the container cap lock groove 38.

Assembly components my be formed or manufactured by any means known inthe art. For example, bottles may be blow molded. The container cap, thefirst component holder and the protective cap may be injection molded.All parts may be made of FDA approved materials. Materials may includeLow Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE),Polypropylene (PP), Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyester andCo-Polyester (PET and PET-G), Styrene Acrylonitrile (SAN), Polystyrene(PS).

The cap 10 of the device may be assembled separate from the bottle andattached to the bottle after it has been filled with the first componentor on the bottle during manufacturing process. In the first case, thefirst component holder 34 is inserted into the container cap 18 untilthe lock ring 36 snaps into the lock groove 38. Next the first component24 is pre-measured and dispensed into the first component holder 34.Separately, the holder cap 52 is filled with desiccant granules 54, ifthe first component is moisture sensitive, and the wire or plastic mesh56 is attached to it.

The assembled holder cap 52 is then attached to the first componentholder 34. Permanent attachment can be achieved by any means availablesuch as solvent or adhesive bonding, ultrasonically welding, heatstaking, press fit insertion, threads or fasteners. The most economicaland practical method should be selected.

The protective cap 28 is then snapped onto the container cap 18; thus,completing the assembly. The assembled dispensing closure 10 is thenscrewed on the container 12 until the tamper proof ring 20 locks behindthe collar 22.

If it is determined, in the bottling process, that the dispensingclosure 10 has to be assembled on the container, a slightly differentprocedure must be followed. After the container has been filled with thesupplemental component, the container cap 18 is first screwed on thecontainer 12 until the tamper proof ring 20 locks behind the collar 22.Then the steps outlined in the above assembly sequence are followeduntil the protective cap 28 is snapped onto the container cap 18 thuscompleting the assembly.

The liquid dispensing attachment (sipper) requires a more detailedassembly procedure since it has more parts. The basic steps are the sameas discussed above. The assembly starts with the container cap 18 thatmay be attached to the container 12 or may be at a separate location.The first component holder 68 is then inserted into the container cap 18until the lock ring 86 lock into the lock groove 98. The first componentholder 68 may be in this case, an assembly, where the sipper tube 70 isattached to its inner wall. The pre-measured first component 90 is thendispensed into the first component holder 68. The sipper cap 62 isattached next to the first component holder 68. The sipper cap 62 mayhave the sipper pull sleeve 74 already attached or it may be inserted asa separate assembly step. Snapping the protective cap 64 onto the sippercap 62 completes the assembly.

At the end of the first component holder 34 (FIGS. 1 and 1A), when thetop flange 42 bottoms out into the container cap seat 44, the lock ring36 moves below the container cap lock ring 40 which has a flat bottomeffectively securing the first component holder 34 in place.

The first component holder 34 is also provided with two seal rings 46that create an air tight fit with the container cap inner wall. Acombination of wall thickness and material flexibility allow the sealrings 46 to pass over the ring/groove combination 32 and container caplock ring 40 in the container cap 18 when the first component holder 34is inserted into the container cap 18.

Between the seal rings 46, openings are provided into the firstcomponent holder 34 wall. These openings 48 constitute the dispensingend of the first component holder 34, FIG. 3. When the device isactivated FIG. 2 the dispensing end travels below the container cap 18wall and the first component 24 is released into the container 12.Before activation, the tamper proof protective cap 28 must be removed bysnapping it off.

The dispensing end of the first component holder 34 has a tapered bottomthat also helps dispensing the first component 24 into the container 12.The tapered bottom has a conical shape and it is angled as such as toallow gravity to dispense the first component. The openings 48 aredesigned to maximize the first component dispensing area. Therefore thecross section of the legs 99 that attach the tapered bottom to the mainbody of the first component holder is kept to a minimum. The number ofopenings may also vary if it is determined that less openings with fewerlegs are desirable.

The first component 24 is loaded into the first component holder 34after the holder has been inserted into the container cap 18 and islocked in the retracted position by means of the ring/groove combination32.

To complete the assembly, a holder cap 52 is attached to the top of thefirst component holder 34. The holder cap 52 may contain desiccantgranules 54 held in place by a wire or plastic mesh 56 that will allowairflow through if the first component is moisture sensitive.

In FIG. 5 the second embodiment of the invention is shown in the closedposition, before the device is activated. As in the first embodiment,the dispensing closure 58 is attached to the container 12, plasticbottle, by means of internal threads 60, provided in the sipper cap 62or container cap.

The sipper cap 62 of the second embodiment provides the same features asthe container cap 18 of the first embodiment namely tamper proof ring 20attached with thin protrusions to the sipper cap 62, means of attachinga protective cap 64 (corresponding meshing teeth 30, ring/groovecombination attachment), serrations 80, FIG. 4, for ease of assembly.The internal wall of the sipper cap 62 has the same lock groove 98, butthe second container cap lock ring 40 has been eliminated in thisconfiguration.

A second embodiment of the device of the present invention is depictedin FIGS. 5-7. In the second embodiment of the invention, the dispensingclosure 58 has means of utilizing the mixed components without removingthe closure from the main package, namely a liquid dispensing nozzle orsipper 66. To create this feature, the movable member or first componentholder 68 has been modified, as shown in FIG. 5, to include a sippertube 70, sipper cap 72 provided with a sipper pull sleeve 74 and aserrated pull ring 76.

The outside of the first component holder 68 is similar to the firstembodiment and includes a lock ring 86 and two seal rings 88. The firstcomponent holder/sipper cap assembly can also include desiccant granules(not shown) held in place by wire or plastic mesh, in case that thefirst component is moisture sensitive.

FIG. 6 shows the device in the activated position. At this point theuser has removed the protective cap 64 by snapping it off and pushingthe first component holder 68 all the way until the top flange 78bottoms out against the container cap seat 82. The openings 84 betweenthe seal rings 88, constituting the dispensing end of the firstcomponent holder 68 and are below the inner wall of the sipper cap 62.The first component 90 is then released into the container 12. Thedispensing end of the first component holder 68 is also tapered 96 toaccelerate the dispensing process.

FIG. 7 shows the device in the operating position when the mixedcomponents are ready for use or consumption. Using the serrated pullring 92, the first component holder 68 is brought back in the initialposition when the lock ring 86 of the first component holder interlockswith the corresponding groove 98 in the sipper cap 62. Since the firstcomponent holder 68 needs to move both ways in this embodiment, the lockring 86 and the lock groove 98 are rounded. To prevent the accidentalremoval of the first component holder 68 from the sipper cap 62, asafety flange 94 is added to the first component holder after insertioninto the container cap.

In this position the openings to the dispensing end 84 are sealed againand liquid can not become trapped between the outer and inner wall ofthe first component holder 68 when the bottle is tilted or turned upsidedown. The final step is to raise the sipper pull sleeve 74 in the upposition and the mixed components are ready for use or consumption.Alternate embodiments of this invention, not shown on drawings include apiercing tip/bellows combination, twist cap, pull cap with or withoutsipper.

With respect to a piercing tip/bellows combination, this particularembodiment of the invention uses a bellows type actuator to perform thefirst component dispensing. The piercing tip is attached to the top ofthe bellows while the bottom of the bellows is attached to the containercap. The first component granules or powder are stored inside thebellows, which is in the extended position. The bottom of the bellows issealed from the supplemental component by a foil seal, membrane or anyother material that is easy to perforate when enough force is applied tothe piercing tip. Removing the protective cap and pushing down on thetop of the bellows will cause the piercing tip to perforate the seal andrelease the first component into the main package. This embodiment usesa bellows type actuator.

In an embodiment, the invention may include a twist cap invention. Thisembodiment of the invention consists of a container cap that has acircular array of release holes on the periphery. In the center of thecap there are a number of cylindrical pins. A mating twist cap isattached to the container cap by means of a retaining plate or otherfastening method. The twist cap has a series of kidney shaped holes inthe center that line up with the cylindrical pins in the container cap.This holes allow only a limited amount of rotation of the twist cap.Also a number of pockets, correspondent to the number of release holesin the container cap, are built into the twist cap. Each pocket has anannular seal that provides an air tight environment for the firstcomponent. First component granules or tablets are inserted into thesepockets prior to attaching the twist cap to the container cap. When thetwo components are assembled, the pockets are offset such as they areresting in between the release holes of the container cap and sealedagainst its flat surface. Rotating the twist cap until the cylindricalpins of the container cap bottom out on the kidney shaped holes of thetwist cap, allow the pockets in the twist cap to line up with therelease holes in the container cap thus dispensing the first componentinto the supplemental component.

In an embodiment, the invention may include a pull cap (with or withoutsipper). This embodiment of the invention is similar to the firstaforementioned two preferred embodiments, except that the dispensing ofthe first component into the supplemental component motion is reversedand a pull action is used instead of push. Removing the protective capand pulling a plug up above the narrow part of a funnel shaped firstcomponent holder, allows the first component to be dispensed into themain package. The second embodiment of this alternate version provides aliquid dispensing nozzle or sipper that allows utilization of the mixedcomponents without removing the closure from the main package.

Turning to FIGS. 8-13, a third embodiment of the present invention isdepicted. A container main body 100 forms a first chamber 101. In anembodiment, the container main body 100 may have the shape of well-knownisotonic beverage or energy drink bottles and may be manufacturedaccording to well-known methods of manufacturing such bottles. In anembodiment, the container main body 100 may be formed of a PET materialand is filled by a room temperature or cooler fill process. Thecontainer main body 100 includes an opening 104 formed by a neck 106. Ina preferred embodiment, the neck 106 is threaded.

A container cap 110 is mounted to the neck 106. In the preferredembodiment, the container cap 110 is threaded onto the neck 106. The cap110 forms a second chamber 112 (see FIG. 11) that stores a component. Ina preferred embodiment, the second chamber provides an air-tight seal toprotect the component and allows the cap 110 or container 100 to bestored on a shelf without degradation or spoilage of the component. Inan embodiment, a component such as a liquid is stored in the firstchamber 101 of the main body 100. In an embodiment, the component in thefirst chamber 101 is water. In such an embodiment, the water onlyobtains a flavor or ingredient upon mixing of the supplemental componentfrom the second chamber 112 and provides for a fresh mixture when thecomponent (221, 222, 223) is mixed. However, prior to mixing with thecomponent of the second chamber 112 the water has no ingredient that maydegrade or spoil. Thus, the first chamber 101 does not need to be sealedin order to maintain the main component in the first chamber 101 or toavoid spoilage or degradation.

Therefore, it may be understood that the container main body 100, in anembodiment where the main body 100 first chamber 101 is filled withwater, need not be manufactured in a high temperature fill method thatacts to preserve the component and prevent spoilage. Thus, due to thestorage of component in the sealed second chamber, the container mainbody 100 may be inexpensively manufactured (compared to other types ofcontainers which may hold a liquid including flavors that must be filledon a high temperature, slow moving production line) without use of amulti-layered, heavy walled main body, or expansion panels. For example,it is believed that the present invention can save approximately 25grams of PET material for each 20 ounce bottle, since no hot fillprocess is necessary. A standard hot fill 20 ounce bottle weighsapproximately 40-50 g. A container 100 of the present invention (in a 20ounce bottle) may weigh approximately 25-30 g. The present container 100also reduces the need for heat resistant plastic inserts, allows forlarger and smoother labeling surfaces and provides a transparentcontainer to easily view component contents. The present container alsoeliminates use of additives such as sorbates, BHT, sulphur dioxide,benzoates, etc., while still providing an end product (after activationof the cap 110) that is fresh, such as an isotonic sports beverage orcarbonated soft drink. The main body 100 can be made of a variety of lowcost polymers such as recyclable PET and avoids undesirable side effectsof hot filled bottles such as vacuum retention, label crinkle and bottledenting. The main body 100 eliminates need for heat setting or othermeans to increase crystallization ratio or glass transition (Tg)temperature. Locating the dispensing mechanism or plunger 120 on the cap110, eliminates or diminishes the potential for residual product in thefirst chamber 101.

The cap 110 includes a cap body 115 that forms a bore 117 having aninner wall 119. A plunger 120 is mounted in the bore 117. The plunger120 includes an open end 122 and a closed end 124. The second chamber112 is formed between the open end 122 and closed end 124 of the plunger120. When the cap 110 is mounted to the main body 100, the open end 122of the second chamber 112 is in communication with the opening 104 ofthe main body 100. The plunger 120 is reciprocatably mounted within thebore 117 and can be moved from a storage condition, as shown in FIG. 11,to an activated condition, as shown in FIG. 13.

The closed end 124 of the cap 110 is formed by a lid 130: In anembodiment, the lid 130 is dome shaped. The plunger 120 includes alocking member such as an annular flange 132. In an embodiment, theplunger 120, lid 130 and locking member 132 are all formed as one pieceof an integrally molded polymer material forming a plunger assembly. Theone piece plunger 120, having the lid 130 and locking member 132,provides for a rigid and robust construction which provides for a cap110 that can be actuated in order to dispense a component from thesecond chamber 112 into the first chamber 101. In an embodiment the lid130 is clear and the main body 100 is clear so that all components arevisible in their unmixed stage at the point of purchase.

The cap body 115 inner wall 119 includes a first structure, such asfirst annular groove 141 and a second structure, such as a secondannular groove 142 for receiving the annular flange 132. As shown inFIG. 11, the annular flange 132 engages the first annular groove 141, inorder to lock the plunger 120 in the storage condition. As is shown inFIG. 13, the plunger is moved downward in direction of arrow D and theannular flange 132 engages the second annular groove 142 in order tolock the plunger 120 in the activated condition. In an embodiment, theannular groove 132 includes a tapered or beveled lower surface 143, sothat the annular groove can slide easily downward along the inner wall119 of the bore 117 and engage the second annular groove 142. In anembodiment, the barbed shape 143 of the annular flange 132 makes itpossible to move the plunger 120 further into the bore 117 of cap body115, but not in the other direction. This construction is important inestablishing a tamper evident feature for the cap 100.

In an embodiment, the barbed shaped annular flange 132 is an integralpart of the one piece plunger 120 and lid 130. The first and secondannular groove 141, 142 also have a corresponding shape to the annularflange 132, so that the flange 132 may easily disengage from residingwithin the first groove 141 and move downward into the second groove142. In an embodiment, the grooves 141, 142 each have a sharp upper edge144 that restricts the movement of the plunger 120 in an upwarddirection (opposite Arrow D).

As is depicted in FIG. 13, an operator's hand 145 pushes downward on thelid 130 in the direction of arrow D which forces the plunger 120downward from the storage condition to the activated condition andcauses the annular flange 132 to move out of the first annular groove141 downward into the second annular groove 142, which locks the plunger120 in the activated condition. Once in the activated condition, asshown in FIG. 13, the annular flange 132 is engaged within the annulargroove 142, so that it cannot be moved upward.

A dispensing tip 150 is mounted in the bore 117 adjacent the plunger120. The dispensing tip 150 includes a cylindrical collar 152 includingan annular ring 153. The annular ring 153 engages in annular lip of theinner diameter rim 155 formed at the open end of the cap body 115. Thedispensing tip 150 forms apertures 151 formed by struts 154 radiallyoriented around the dispenser tip 150 (FIG. 14). In an embodiment, threestruts 154 are provided and three apertures 151 are formed therebetween.As shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, the dispensing tip 150 is a separatecomponent from the plunger 120. In an alternate embodiment, thedispensing tip 150 and plunger 120 may be attached and operate as aunit.

The dispensing tip 150 is activated by movement of the plunger 120 andreciprocates from a closed position, as shown in FIG. 11, to an openposition as shown in FIG. 13. The dispensing tip 150 includes atransverse base 157 forming a conical upper surface 158 and an annularedge 160 forming a first flat sealing surface 161 (FIG. 14) whichengages a second flat sealing surface 162 formed on an annular rim 163of the cap body 115. In the closed position, as shown in FIG. 11, theannular edge 160 is adjacent the annular rim 163 and the first flatsealing surface 161 abuts the second flat sealing surface 162. In anembodiment, the second chamber 112 is sealed by the dispensing tip 150when the first flat sealing surface 161 abuts the second flat sealingsurface 162 via the mechanical locking of the compression fit between anouter diameter rim 165 of the dispensing tip being press—fit within theinner diameter rim 155 of the cap body 115. In an embodiment, the innerdiameter rim 155 has a diameter that is slightly smaller than the outerdiameter rim 165, so that upon insertion of the dispensing tip 150within the bore 117, the cap body 115 is expanded slightly outward andprovides a compression fit around the dispenser tip 150 in order to lockit in place and form a seal. In an embodiment, the seal is air tight andmoisture resistant.

In an alternate embodiment, a seal may be formed between the first flatsealing surface 161 and the second flat sealing surface 162 viadeformation of those surfaces. For example, a dielectric seal may beformed by imparting energy at the annular edge 160 and annular rim 163.In an embodiment, a sealing operation provides a dielectric seal whichestablishes a minimum pull force of approximately 250-1,000 grams, sothat the seal of the dispensing tip may only be broken by generating aforce greater than the pull force formed by the seal. The strength ofthe seal may be modified by altering the amount of energy transmitted tothe first and second flat sealing surfaces 161, 162. Such a dielectricseal 170 may form a labyrinth seal in order to provide for a moistureseal and an air tight seal of the chamber 112 in order to prevent airand moisture from entering or exiting the second chamber 112 from thefirst chamber 101 or from outside the container 100 or cap 100.

The cap body 115 also includes a pull tab or tear strip 175. The tearstrip 175 includes a handle 176 and a compression barrier 177. Aperforated area 178 provided adjacent a lower, outer edge of the lid 130protruding from the plunger 120 that attaches the tear strip 175 to thecap 115 and plunger 120. In an embodiment, the tear strip 175 isintegrally molded with the plunger 120. By pulling on the handle 176 inthe direction of arrows A, as shown in FIG. 12, the compression barrier177 is removed along the perforation 178 and forms a gap G between thelid 130 and an outer collar 179. Prior to removal of the tear strip 175,the compression barrier 177 forms a means of preventing the lid 130 frombeing moved downward in direction of arrow D, as shown in FIG. 13 andprovides a compression barrier against activation of the cap 110. Afterthe tear strip 175 is removed, the gap G allows the lid to be moveddownward in order to move the plunger 120 to its activated condition asshown in FIG. 13. Therefore, it is also to be understood that the tearstrip 175 provides for a tamper evident component that allows for visualindication that the cap 110 has been tampered with—when the tear strip175 is missing. Such removal of the tamper evident component 175 wouldprovide an indication that the seal 170 may have been broken and thatthe component within the second chamber 112 is no longer fresh orspoiled.

The cap 110 also includes a desicant container 180. In an embodiment,the container 180 is a cylinder and includes an annular finger 181 thatis received by an annular neck 182 formed in the lid 130, so that thedesicant cylinder 180 may be snap-fit in place into the lid 130. Adesiccant filled cylinder 180 is provided to mitigate the effects ofmoisture penetration into the chamber 112, should it occur.

A drop ring 185 is mounted on the cap body 115 below the outer collar179. Upon twisting the collar in order to remove the cap 110 from theneck 106 of the container body 100, the drop ring 185 has frangibleposts 187 (FIG. 11) that are broken and cause the ring 185 to separatefrom the collar 179 that provides a visual cue that the container hasbeen opened. Thus, the drop ring 185 provides another tamper indicatorfor the cap 110, in addition to the tear strip 175 discussed above.

In an embodiment, the cap body 115 includes the inner wall 119 includingthe upper, middle and lower wall sections 201, 202, 203 and the outercollar 179. In an embodiment, these components may all be integrallymolded of a polymer material to provide a cap body assembly. The firstand second annular grooves 141, 142, threads 225, vents 227 and dropring 185 may also be molded as part of the cap body assembly.

The bore 117 formed by the inner wall 119 of the cap body 115, in anembodiment, includes an upper section 201, a middle section 202 and alower section 203. In a preferred embodiment, the upper section 201 andlower section 203 have walls 119 formed that are parallel to the linearaxis of the bore 117. As shown in FIG. 11, line a indicates the outerwall 203 of the lower section which is parallel to the linear axis ofthe cap body 115. In an embodiment, the middle section 202 is taperedand line β indicates the taper of the middle section 202 of the wall119. As shown in FIG. 11, the angle between the linear wall at the lowersection 203 and the middle section 202 is approximately 5°. In anembodiment, the plunger 120 includes a lower portion 205 that is alsotapered at approximately 5° (shown by line Ω) with respect to the wall203. Therefore, the cap body 115 includes an outer plunger wall 202 thatis tapered correspondingly to a lower portion inner wall 205 of theplunger 120 and form a luer lock when they are abutting each other, asshown in FIG. 13. This luer lock causes the plunger 120 to be maintainedin the activated condition, so that the plunger 120 cannot be movedupward (in the opposite direction of arrow D as shown in FIG. 13).

Thus, it is to be understood that both the annular flange 132 locked inthe annular groove 142 and the outer plunger wall 22 engaging the innertapered wall 205, act simultaneously to lock the plunger 120 in theactivated condition, so that the plunger may not be deactivated or movedbackwards into the stored condition. In an embodiment, both features actto maintain the plunger in the activated condition. In an alternateembodiment, the cap 110 may be designed so that only the luer lockingeffect of the tapered walls maintains the plunger in the activatedcondition. In a further alternate embodiment, the cap 110 may bedesigned so that only the annular flange 132 locked in the annulargroove 142 maintains the plunger 120 in the activated condition.Although it helps to lock the plunger in the activated condition, theprimary purpose for the tapered plunger is to create a “corking” orlever feature so the pressure created by the effervescent tablets orotherwise carbonated or pressurized liquid can't escape through the capassembly. The tapered five degree plunger 120 and bore wall 202 is anintegral part of the plunger 120, lid 130, and locking means. Buildingthis feature into the plunger 120 affords inexpensive manufacture andeliminates the need for an additional seal component.

In an embodiment, the second chamber 112 is filled with a component suchas granules or tablets including Creatine, wolfberry, calcium, guanine,arginine, Vitamins B, B12, C, D, ibuprofen, electrolytes, niacin, folicacid, biotin, choline bitartate, inositol, manganese, calcium, SaintJohn's wart, yohimbe, chromium polynicotinate, carnitine, taurine,astragulus, schizandra, kava kava, lemon grass, Echinacea, prolione, beepollen, amino acids, chitin oligomers, water soluble oral chitosanoligomers and zinc, among others. As shown in FIG. 11, the component maycomprise granules having different sizes and weights. For example, afirst component 221, a supplemental component 222 and a third component223 are depicted. In an embodiment, the first component 221 weighsapproximately 0.10-0.50 grams, the supplemental component 222 weighsapproximately 0.15-0.75 grams and the third component 223 weighsapproximately 0.20-1.0 grams. In the stored condition, as shown in FIG.11, the component may be disbursed by weight/size within the chamber112. In an alternate embodiment, the first, second and third component221, 222, 223 may be disbursed randomly throughout the chamber 112. Itis also to be understood that in other embodiments the chamber 112 mayinclude a single component having one size and shape, two componentshaving two sizes and shapes or any number or combination of componentshaving different sizes and shapes. In a further alternate embodiment,the component in the second chamber 112 may be a powder, liquid, gas,slurry or other particles.

As shown in FIG. 13, upon movement of the plunger from the storedcondition to the activated condition, the dispenser tip is moved to theopen position and the component is dispensed into the first chamber 101.Due to the different sizes and weights of the components 221, 222, 223they will be dispensed into the liquid at different rates of descent andin different locations. As shown in FIG. 13, the first component 221 isdisbursed to the upper portion of the container main body 100, thesupplemental component 222 is disbursed towards the middle of the mainbody 100 and the third and heaviest component 223 is dispensed towardsthe bottom of the main body of the container 100. In this way thedifferent sized and weighted components 221, 222, 223 are disbursedthroughout the different areas of the chamber 101. In an embodiment, thecomponent provides for an effervescent action and the effervescence willoccur throughout the entire chamber 101 based on the dispersion of thedifferent sized and weighted components 221, 222, 223. The use ofeffervescent tablets 221 in conjunction with the delivery systemprovides strong refreshment cues such as a “fizz” sound, active bubbles,a unique and apparent reaction and a visible change of state (solid toliquid) for the contents of the chamber 101. In an alternate embodiment,the components may have different shapes. As shown in FIG. 13, thecomponent are sphere-like granules. In an alternate embodiment,cube-shaped granules may be provided so that the rate at which thegranules effervesce is different and also so that the different shapedgranules will descend through the liquid at different rates and locateand be disbursed in different parts of the chamber 101. All of thesemodifications in the size, weight and shape of the component willprovide a more disbursed effervescent visual effect through the chamber101, providing for a more satisfactory experience for the user of thebottle.

The cap 110 also includes a locking lug 230 (FIG. 12) of the plunger 120that protrudes and is received in a keyway 232 (FIG. 15), formed as arecess in the collar 174 inner wall 183, in order to prevent rotation ofthe plunger within the cap body 115. The one piece plunger 120incorporates in an embodiment two external locking lugs 230 whichprevent the plunger 120 from turning or spinning along its central axiswhen the tear strip 175 is removed. Without these lugs 230 the plunger120 would rotate relative to the cap body 115 during removal of the tearstrip 175. In an embodiment, there are two lugs 230 on the plunger 120and two corresponding key ways 232 on the cap body 115. In an alternateembodiment, there could be more or less lugs/keyways that prevent theplunger 120 from spinning relative to the cap 115.

In a preferred method of assembling the container of the presentinvention, the cap 110 is assembled separately from the main body 100.The one piece plunger 120, and lid 130 are mounted on the cap body 115thereon. The desicant cylinder 180 is then snap fit within the chamber112. The cap body 115 is then inverted so that the bore 117 is facingupward. An automated process of filling the chamber 112 with a component221, 222, 223 may be provided such as via a conveyor belt fillingprocess or an automated fill nozzle. After filling the chamber 112 withcomponent, the dispensing tip 150 is then inserted into the bore 117.The dispensing tip 150 may be sealed onto the cap body 115 according tothe means discussed above, including mechanically or via dielectricseal. The plunger assembly 120 and cap body 115 are filled withcomponent 221, 222, 223, and united via the annular flange 132 receivedin annular groove 141 and the outer diameter rim 165 of the dispensertip 150 engaging the inner diameter rim 155 of the cap body 115 in orderto provide an air tight chamber 112. The plunger assembly 120 and capbody 115 cannot be separated, prior to removal of the tear strip 175,without destroying each part 115, 120. As well, after removal of thetear strip 175, the plunger assembly 120 can reciprocate within the capbody; however, the two parts still cannot be separated, withoutdestroying each part 115, 120. The cap 110 may then be assembled ontothe main body 100 or it may be sold separately for situations wherecustomers may wish to have different flavored or different types of capsto place onto separately purchased bottles of liquid, such as water.Because the external shape of the cap 110 is round, it facilitates useon existing capping equipment and does not require orientation orindexing. The ability to separate the cap 110 and bottle main body 100prior to mixing, affords the ability for consumers to adjust theconcentration of the mixture by reducing the amount of liquid in thebottle prior to mixing. The ability to separate cap 110 and bottle mainbody 100 prior to mixing, also affords the ability for consumers to usethe first chamber 101 contents independent of the contents of thecomponent 221, 222, 223.

In an embodiment, the dispensing tip construction will work in thefollowing combinations: a) with the die-electric seal and without theannular snap ring seal; b) with the annular snap ring seal and withoutthe die-electric seal; or c) with both the die-electric seal and theannular snap ring seal. The preferred embodiment depends on theapplication and sensitivity of the chamber or bottle contents. Inaddition to providing an easily adjustable secondary seal, theseparation of dielectrically bonded “horizontal flats” will alsocontribute to a signature “POP” sound.

The separation of the lower annular snap ring seal along with theseparation of the upper annular lock ring creates a “POP” sound, audibleduring plunger 120 actuation. The combination of the two annular snaprings/lock rings 132/141, 165/155 overcoming their interference fitsresults in the “POP” sound. In addition the rapid separation of thelower seal 170 equalizes the pressure within the chamber and bottlefurther contributing to the “POP” sound. The “POP” sound is a audible,mnemonic feature which, in an embodiment differentiates and identifiesthe closure system of the present invention. A distinctive plunger“smack” operation, sound and action also differentiates the invention,in an embodiment, and creates a new, and novel interaction between theconsumer and the product.

When the cap 110 is placed onto the cap body 100, the outer collar 179includes threads 225 including vents 227 which engage the threads of theneck 106 of the main body 100 for attachment thereto. After the cap body110 is assembled to the main body 100, the completed assembly is shippedto a store and purchased by an end user. The closure's seal with thebottle is air tight. The content of the dispensing chamber 112 ismaintained in an airtight condition until the plunger is actuated. Themixed content of the chamber 112 and bottle 100 is also maintained in anairtight condition until the cap 110 is unscrewed and removed from thebottle.

The preferred method of operating the cap end container assembly is asfollows. The operator lifts the container body 100 and removes the tearstrip 175 by grabbing the handle 176 and pulling it away from the capbody 115, so that the compression barrier 177 is removed along theperforated edge 178 and providing a gap G, as shown in FIG. 12. Theoperator strikes downward on the lid 130 in direction of arrow D withthe palm, as shown in FIG. 13. This striking action pushes the lid 130downward (closing the gap G) and generates a push force of approximately1500 to 3000 grams and causes the plunger 120 to move from the storagecondition (FIG. 11) to the activated condition (FIG. 13). The lower edge122 of the plunger pushes against the upper collar 152 of the dispensertip 150 causing it to move from the closed to the open position, asshown in FIG. 13. In an embodiment, the striking of the lid 130 with thepalm of the user's hand 145 causes a “smack” sound. The lid 130 isformed having a flat dome shape to accentuate the “smack” sound. Thetelescoping construction of the plunger 120 within the cap body 115allows for the lid 130 to be compressed and create a physically smalleroverall package that contributes to an appearance of less material andwaste and a more eco-friendly package.

As well, an embodiment the dispenser tip 150 is designed to make a soundwhen it is activated. For example, the breaking of the seal 170 maycause a “pop” sound when the seal is broken and air rushes into thechamber 112. Further, upon movement of the plunger 120 from the storagecondition to the activated condition the compression of the beveled face143 of the flange 132 may also provide a “pop” sound. Therefore, each ofthese audible sounds will provide for an alarm to the operator that theseal 170 has been broken and the component of the chamber 112 is beingreleased. In an embodiment, all three of these sounds can occursimultaneously to provide a unique experience for the user and providean exciting audible feature to indicate that the component in thechamber 112 is being released. In alternate embodiments, none, one ortwo of these audible features may be provided.

Once in the open position, the dispenser tip 150 allows for thecomponent 221, 222, 223 to be easily dispensed from the chamber 112 byrolling down the conical shaped surface 158, through the apertures 151and out of the cap body 115 into the chamber 101 where the component221, 222, 223 may mix with the other component, such as liquid. Asdiscussed above, the full effervescence may be achieved throughout theliquid in chamber 101, in order to provide for additional excitement forthe operator.

In an embodiment, the bottle 100 can be resealed using the closuresystem 106, 225 whether the plunger 120 is in its actuated orun-actuated state. In an embodiment, the neck of mouth surface 106 ofthe main body 100 is covered by closure assembly cap 110 and remains“clean” until the cap 110 is unscrewed and removed. This is a helpfulfeature because all aluminum beverage cans and many sport caps haveexposed mouth surfaces. After the closure mechanism is in the activatedcondition the compressed plunger 120 and cap assembly 110 provides allthe functions of a traditional re-sealable closure.

The matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanyingdrawings is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation.While particular embodiments have been shown and described, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications maybe made without departing from the broader aspects of applicants'contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended tobe defined in the following claims when viewed in their properperspective based on the prior art.

1. A container comprising: a container main body providing a firstchamber for holding a liquid and having an opening; a container capmounted at the opening of the container main body, the cap including aplunger having an open end and a closed end and a second chamber formedtherebetween for holding a component, the closed end formed by a lid,the plunger having a locking member wherein the plunger, lid and lockingmember are all formed of one piece; a cap body having a bore formed byan inner wall having a first structure and the plunger mounted withinthe bore and movable from a storage condition to an activated conditionso that in the storage condition the locking member engages the firststructure; and a dispensing tip mounted in the bore adjacent the plungerand the plunger activates the dispensing tip to move from a closedposition to an open position allowing the component in the secondchamber to be dispensed into the first chamber.
 2. The container ofclaim 1 wherein the open end of the plunger abuts against a cylindricalcollar of the dispensing tip and upon actuation of the plunger from thestorage condition to the activated condition the open end abuts againstthe collar and pushes the dispensing tip from the closed to the openposition in order to break the seal of the dispensing tip and allow forthe component to be dispensed from the second chamber to the firstchamber of the main body.
 3. The container of claim 1 wherein thecontainer cap includes a tear strip which provides for both acompression barrier in order to maintain the lid in the storagecondition when the tear strip is attached to the cap and a tamperevident component that provides for a visible indication once the tearstrip is removed.
 4. The container of claim 3 wherein the tear strip isformed as one piece with the plunger and includes a perforated areaadjacent an edge of the cap to allow for removal of the tear strip.5-26. (canceled)
 27. A cap comprising: a cap body having an open end anda closed end formed by a lid; and a dispenser tip mounted at the openend and reciprocatable between an open and a closed position and in theclosed position, in at least a first operation, the dispenser tipforming a seal at the open end and upon activation of the dispenser tipthe seal being broken and providing a first audible sound indicative ofthe dispenser tip being in the open position.
 28. The cap of claim 27wherein the lid is moveable between a storage condition and an activatedcondition by pushing downward on the lid with an operator's hand and thelid being hard and smooth in order to provide a resonant surface so thatupon activation of the lid with the operator's hand a second audiblesound is provided indicative of the lid being moved to the activatedcondition.
 29. The cap of claim 28 wherein the lid includes atransparent dome.
 30. The cap of claim 28 wherein the lid includesindicia identifying the contents of the container.
 31. The cap of claim28 wherein the first and second audible sounds occur approximatelysimultaneously to provide a dual activation opening sound.
 32. The capof claim 28 wherein the seal is provided by a dielectric seal formedbetween an edge of the dispenser tip and the open end of the cap body.33. The cap of claim 28 wherein the seal is provided by mechanicallylocking the dispenser tip against the open end of the cap body.
 34. Thecap of claim 28 wherein the dispenser tip is generally conical shapedand includes an annular edge forming a first flat, sealing surface andthe cap body forming an annular rim at the open end and the rim forminga second flat, sealing surface for abuttingly receiving the first flat,sealing surface thereon in the closed position.
 35. The cap of claim 34wherein a dielectric seal is provided between the first and second flat,sealing surfaces that can withstand a pull force of about 250-1000grams.
 36. The cap of claim 34 wherein the dispenser tip includes anupper ring having an annular flange protruding in a direction parallelto the annular edge; and the cap body including an annular groove forreceiving the annular flange in order to lock the dispensing tip in theclosed position and seal the first flat sealing surface against thesecond flat sealing surface.
 37. The cap of claim 36 wherein upon movingthe dispenser tip from the closed position to the open position theannular flange is displaced from the annular groove and provides thefirst audible sound due to the compression and decompression of materialforming the annular flange.
 38. The cap of claim 37 wherein thedispenser tip is generally conical shaped and includes an annular edgeforming a first flat, sealing surface and the cap body forming anannular rim at the open end and the rim forming a second, flat sealingsurface for abuttingly receiving the first flat, sealing surface thereonin the closed position and the first audible sound is provided by boththe breaking of the dielectric seal and the disengagement of the annularflange from the annular groove.
 39. A method of providing effervescencein a container comprising: providing a container having a first chamberfor holding a liquid and second chamber holding a component; filling thefirst chamber at least partially with liquid; filling the second chamberat least partially with the component, wherein the component is formedof a first component having a first weight or shape and a supplementalcomponent having a second weight or shape; activating the container sothat the first chamber is in communication with the second chamber; anddispensing the component from the second chamber to the first chamberand the component being dispersed into the liquid so that the firstcomponent is dispersed to a first location in the liquid that is apartfrom a second location to which the supplemental component is dispersed,wherein the component is activated by the liquid and causes aneffervescence within the first chamber at the first and secondlocations.
 40. The method of claim 39 wherein the first weight isbetween about 0.5 to 2 grams and the second weight is between about 2 to5 grams.
 41. The method of claim 39 wherein the first shape is a sphereand the second shape is a cube.
 42. The method of claim 39 wherein thecomponent is a tablet including an ingredient including one of aCreatine, wolfberry, calcium, guarine, arginine, Vitamins B, B12, C, D,ibuprofen, electrolytes, niacin, folic acid, biotin, choline bitartate,inositol, manganese, calcium, Saint John's wart, yohimbe, chromiumpolynicotinate, carnitine, taurine, astragulus, schizandra, kava kava,lemon grass, Echinacea, prolione, bee pollen, chitin oligomers, watersoluble oral chitosan oligomers, amino acids and zinc. 43-44. (canceled)